Harbor Friends,
We had a tremendous Christmas holiday celebrating the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. I would like to thank the Harbor Worship Center family for the wonderful Christmas bonus, the cards, the gifts, and so forth. We have been blessed beyond measure. I would also like to say thanks to the church family for your heart of compassion that was expressed to so many people during the Christmas season. Several families were adopted and given anonymous Christmas gifts. This was made possible by people being obedient and sensitive to the moving of the Spirit. The Lord will truly bless you for that compassion and faithfulness.
This Friday night we will have our Watch Night Service. It will start at 10p.m. in the fellowship hall. We are asking everyone to bring finger foods and a drink. This will be our last opportunity to fellowship together in 2010. We hope to see you there. We will also be taking communion together at the close of the worship service as we welcome the New Year.
The New Year's Fast will start on January 1st and continue through the 21st. We are asking everyone to participate at some level and be consistent with it throughout the fast. There will be Bible Reading and Prayer at the church every day 7-8a.m and 7-8p.m. There will also be video messages played on certain days during the evening prayer time.
Happy New Year!
Michael D. Sanes
Pastor, The Harbor
Thursday, December 30, 2010
Monday, December 20, 2010
Harbor News / Update
Harbor Family and Friends,
Yesterday the Harbor Kid's Church performed the musical "It's A Wonderful Life". Everyone did such an outstanding job; I would like to thank everyone that helped in any way. The theme of the production was simple--Without Christ there is no Christmas. By the way, the church was full, and this is a testament to the work of the the "Outreach Team". Thanks to this great effort we were able to share the gospel with many people who would not have otherwise came. This is the result of those involved in the production getting their list of names turned in so that the outreach team could to to work. Thanks again.
Sunday night we followed up with a Christmas message along the same lines--Without Christ there is no Christmas.
We know that he world would like for us to forget about Christ and remove Him from our
We learned that:
Merry Christmas!
Mike Sanes
Pastor, THWC
Yesterday the Harbor Kid's Church performed the musical "It's A Wonderful Life". Everyone did such an outstanding job; I would like to thank everyone that helped in any way. The theme of the production was simple--Without Christ there is no Christmas. By the way, the church was full, and this is a testament to the work of the the "Outreach Team". Thanks to this great effort we were able to share the gospel with many people who would not have otherwise came. This is the result of those involved in the production getting their list of names turned in so that the outreach team could to to work. Thanks again.
Sunday night we followed up with a Christmas message along the same lines--Without Christ there is no Christmas.
We know that he world would like for us to forget about Christ and remove Him from our
We learned that:
- Without Christ the days don't matter--you can call the holiday whatever you like, if there's no Christ it doesn't matter, it would be just another day.
- W/O Him December 25th would be just another day.
- Without Christ the songs don't matter
- W/O Him there's no sense in singing "Joy to the World", because w/o Him there is no joy.
- No need to sing "O Come All Ye Faithful"; w/o Him what is there to be faithful too?
- There would be no need to sing "Away in a Manger" or "O Little Town of Bethlehem"
- For that matter there would be no need to sing at all, for without Christ we are not forgiven, we would still be in our sins and we would have nothing to look forward to.
- Without Christ the Word (Bible) doesn't matter: W/O Him the Bible would be just another book. All of the Old Testament spoke of His coming. In the New Testament He fulfilled those prophecies by spoken of Him by coming in a fashion the world did not understand, nor did they accept. He came into His own, and His own did not receive Him.
- Without Christ prayer doesn't matter: If there be no Christ, then who are we praying to? If there be no Christ then the Word has lied, the days don't matter, the Bible doesn't matter, and our prayers are in vain.
Merry Christmas!
Mike Sanes
Pastor, THWC
Thursday, December 16, 2010
News Analysis--Man Charged for Blasphemy
It's amazing to me that an American man is charged with blasphemy for going into a mosque during prayers and unplugging the speakers. It is absolutely true. In Jakarta, Indonesia a man was charged with blasphemy and sentenced to five months in jail for his crime. Plus, the mob attacked this man (who himself was a Muslim) ransacked his house causing about $20,000 in damages. See the article at the link below:
http://www.foxnews.com/world/2010/12/16/american-man-gets-jail-time-blasphemy/?test=latestnews
I just have to wonder, what if someone were to run into our church while we were praying and disabled our sound system. Would they be held to the same accountability and punishment that this man was held to for going into a mosque. I highly doubt it! It seems that you can say or do anything you want about our God and our Faith, but the moment you offend a Muslim or their faith it is tantamount to "HIGH TREASON".
It is ludicrous to me that they can blow up Americans and call for the annihilation of Israel on one hand, and feel justified in doing so. But on the other hand say: DON'T INTERRUPT US WHILE WE PRAY! In other words we can terrorize anyone we see fit even to the killing of thousands and expect no repercussions. However, if you offend us in the slightest way we will hold you accountable to the fullest extend of the law. The sad part is that our laws are designed to protect those who are ready and willing to harm us.
Mike Sanes
Pastor
http://www.foxnews.com/world/2010/12/16/american-man-gets-jail-time-blasphemy/?test=latestnews
I just have to wonder, what if someone were to run into our church while we were praying and disabled our sound system. Would they be held to the same accountability and punishment that this man was held to for going into a mosque. I highly doubt it! It seems that you can say or do anything you want about our God and our Faith, but the moment you offend a Muslim or their faith it is tantamount to "HIGH TREASON".
It is ludicrous to me that they can blow up Americans and call for the annihilation of Israel on one hand, and feel justified in doing so. But on the other hand say: DON'T INTERRUPT US WHILE WE PRAY! In other words we can terrorize anyone we see fit even to the killing of thousands and expect no repercussions. However, if you offend us in the slightest way we will hold you accountable to the fullest extend of the law. The sad part is that our laws are designed to protect those who are ready and willing to harm us.
Mike Sanes
Pastor
Monday, December 13, 2010
Abel's Sacrifice, Cain's Offering
Friends,
Today I want to repost a blog that I published by in 2010, but with a new twist to it. Originally I titled the blog "Two Brothers--Two Offerings", but as I was reading back through this blog it came to me that it really wasn't two offerings, but rather, a Sacrifice by Abel and an Offering by Cain.
A sacrifice speaks of that which cost someone dearly. On the other hand, an offering is just that: something that is offered. In my mind it is like a tip, or something that is extra. One can be nonchalant as they give an offering, but no one could be this way while presenting a sacrifice.
Abel truly rendered a sacrifice of firstfruits; Cain offered something casual, something other than and less than what was required.
Here is this story about two brothers, one sacrifice and one offering, with two very different results. The brothers names were Cain and Abel; they were two sons of Adam and Eve. Let's take a look at their story, it is found in Genesis 4:2-9 (NRSV)
2 Next she bore his brother Abel. Now Abel was a keeper of sheep, and Cain a tiller of the ground. 3 In the course of time Cain brought to the LORD an offering of the fruit of the ground, 4 and Abel for his part brought of the firstlings of his flock, their fat portions. And the LORD had regard for Abel and his offering, 5 but for Cain and his offering he had no regard. So Cain was very angry, and his countenance fell. 6 The LORD said to Cain, "Why are you angry, and why has your countenance fallen? 7 If you do well, will you not be accepted? And if you do not do well, sin is lurking at the door; its desire is for you, but you must master it." 8 Cain said to his brother Abel, "Let us go out to the field." And when they were in the field, Cain rose up against his brother Abel, and killed him. 9 Then the LORD said to Cain, "Where is your brother Abel?" He said, "I do not know; am I my brother's keeper?"
Strangely enough this question comes after two offerings are brought to the Lord by two brothers, Cain and Abel. God accepts Abel’s sacrifice and rejects Cain’s offering. Abel had brought of the firstlings of his flock and Cain had brought "an offering" of the fruit of the ground. Notice, the Bible didn’t say that he brought the firstfruits, but rather, “an offering” from the fruit of the ground.
Cain knew what was required but didn’t bother to do it. He got mad because God rejected his offering and he took it out on his brother Abel by killing him. In a nutshell, he was jealous because his brother’s sacrifice was accepted but his offering his was not. So instead of getting mad at himself for not doing what he knew to do, he got mad at his brother insomuch that he killed him.
I would also point out the fact that if you are willing to rob God of what’s His, you probably wouldn’t have a problem with lying either. Cain didn’t. God said: “Where is your brother, Abel?” Cain said, “I don’t know”. That was a lie. Cain had just killed him. He knew he was dead. Then he asked God a question: “Am I my brother’s keeper?” He was basically saying, "I’m not responsible for him."
Cain's words have come to symbolize people's unwillingness to accept responsibility for the welfare of their fellow brothers and sisters.
There are lots of hurting people out there. Some of them are outsiders so to speak, they don't know God. Then there are those who are insiders; they know God, but have been hurt. I'm not talking about those who are always pouting about something for attention. But those hurting who you will never know about, unless the Spirit reveals it, because they mask it so well.
We are our brother's keeper. The Word tells us to:15 Laugh with your happy friends when they're happy; share tears when they're down. 16 Get along with each other; don't be stuck-up. Make friends with nobodies; don't be the great somebody. 17 Don't hit back; discover beauty in everyone. 18 If you've got it in you, get along with everybody. 19 Don't insist on getting even; that's not for you to do. "I'll do the judging," says God. "I'll take care of it." Romans 12:15-19 (MSG)
Have a blessed day!
Michael D. Sanes
Pastor, The Harbor Worship Center
Today I want to repost a blog that I published by in 2010, but with a new twist to it. Originally I titled the blog "Two Brothers--Two Offerings", but as I was reading back through this blog it came to me that it really wasn't two offerings, but rather, a Sacrifice by Abel and an Offering by Cain.
A sacrifice speaks of that which cost someone dearly. On the other hand, an offering is just that: something that is offered. In my mind it is like a tip, or something that is extra. One can be nonchalant as they give an offering, but no one could be this way while presenting a sacrifice.
Abel truly rendered a sacrifice of firstfruits; Cain offered something casual, something other than and less than what was required.
Here is this story about two brothers, one sacrifice and one offering, with two very different results. The brothers names were Cain and Abel; they were two sons of Adam and Eve. Let's take a look at their story, it is found in Genesis 4:2-9 (NRSV)
2 Next she bore his brother Abel. Now Abel was a keeper of sheep, and Cain a tiller of the ground. 3 In the course of time Cain brought to the LORD an offering of the fruit of the ground, 4 and Abel for his part brought of the firstlings of his flock, their fat portions. And the LORD had regard for Abel and his offering, 5 but for Cain and his offering he had no regard. So Cain was very angry, and his countenance fell. 6 The LORD said to Cain, "Why are you angry, and why has your countenance fallen? 7 If you do well, will you not be accepted? And if you do not do well, sin is lurking at the door; its desire is for you, but you must master it." 8 Cain said to his brother Abel, "Let us go out to the field." And when they were in the field, Cain rose up against his brother Abel, and killed him. 9 Then the LORD said to Cain, "Where is your brother Abel?" He said, "I do not know; am I my brother's keeper?"
Strangely enough this question comes after two offerings are brought to the Lord by two brothers, Cain and Abel. God accepts Abel’s sacrifice and rejects Cain’s offering. Abel had brought of the firstlings of his flock and Cain had brought "an offering" of the fruit of the ground. Notice, the Bible didn’t say that he brought the firstfruits, but rather, “an offering” from the fruit of the ground.
Cain knew what was required but didn’t bother to do it. He got mad because God rejected his offering and he took it out on his brother Abel by killing him. In a nutshell, he was jealous because his brother’s sacrifice was accepted but his offering his was not. So instead of getting mad at himself for not doing what he knew to do, he got mad at his brother insomuch that he killed him.
I would also point out the fact that if you are willing to rob God of what’s His, you probably wouldn’t have a problem with lying either. Cain didn’t. God said: “Where is your brother, Abel?” Cain said, “I don’t know”. That was a lie. Cain had just killed him. He knew he was dead. Then he asked God a question: “Am I my brother’s keeper?” He was basically saying, "I’m not responsible for him."
Cain's words have come to symbolize people's unwillingness to accept responsibility for the welfare of their fellow brothers and sisters.
There are lots of hurting people out there. Some of them are outsiders so to speak, they don't know God. Then there are those who are insiders; they know God, but have been hurt. I'm not talking about those who are always pouting about something for attention. But those hurting who you will never know about, unless the Spirit reveals it, because they mask it so well.
We are our brother's keeper. The Word tells us to:15 Laugh with your happy friends when they're happy; share tears when they're down. 16 Get along with each other; don't be stuck-up. Make friends with nobodies; don't be the great somebody. 17 Don't hit back; discover beauty in everyone. 18 If you've got it in you, get along with everybody. 19 Don't insist on getting even; that's not for you to do. "I'll do the judging," says God. "I'll take care of it." Romans 12:15-19 (MSG)
Have a blessed day!
Michael D. Sanes
Pastor, The Harbor Worship Center
Monday, December 6, 2010
Prayerborne Fighting Force
Harbor Family,
We had wonderful services yesterday at the Harbor. Last night was a special treat for Kelly and I to have our former Pastor and First Lady, Jesse and Pat Ogden with us in service. He did an outstanding job speaking to us about the importance of prayer and those who pray. He drove home the point that everything must be carried by prayer, and if it's not, the battle is being lost. Thanks to everyone who came back to the evening service, and especially those who have joined the Prayerborne fighting force of the Harbor.
I would also like to thank those who are standing as intercessors for me and my family. I have copied those twenty prayers that you prayed last night and listed them below for your convenience.
20 SCRIPTURE-BASED PRAYERS TO PRAY FOR YOUR PASTOR
1. I thank You, Father, that Your eyes are on my shepherd and Your ears are attentive to my pastor´s prayers and Your face is against those who plot evil against my pastor (1 Pet. 3:12). For I know that in all things You work for the good of _____ (insert your pastor´s name) who loves You (Ro. 8:28 ). Who can accuse this pastor who is daily interceded for by Christ Jesus? (Ro. 8:33-34). Therefore, in all things my pastor is more than a conqueror (Ro. 8:37). Thank You, God.
2. Lord, I pray for discernment in exposing any schemes of the enemy against my pastor. Show our congregation how to pray against all powers of this dark world and the spiritual forces of darkness in heavenly realms. And, Lord, protect us as we wage warfare on behalf of our pastor (Eph. 6:11-12).
3. Father, I thank You that no weapons formed against my pastor will prosper. Every tongue raised against my shepherd will be cast down. Rumors and gossip will be turned aside. For _____ will be still before the Lord and wait on You. My pastor will dwell in the shadow of the Most High God and will be delivered from terror, darts of doubt, and diseases (Ps. 91:5-6). Set Your angels about my pastor (Ps. 91:11) and no power of the enemy shall harm _____(Lk. 10:19). Thank God forevermore!
4. Lord, let _____ have a discerning mind to prioritize the precious minutes in the day. Let my pastor discern what is most important and be guarded against the tyranny of the urgent (2 Cor. 11:14, 1 Jn. 4:1).
5. Father, allow my pastor to glory only in the cross (Gal. 6:14). Keep my pastor from pride and pity. Let the cross be his reason for ministry.
6. Jesus keep my pastor holy in every way (1 Pet. 1:16). Protect my shepherd from seducing spirits especially when he is tired and hard-pressed. Give _____ comrades to help protect him, and to share with in personal holiness (Jas. 4:7). As my pastor draws near to You, draw near to my pastor (Jas. 4:8 ).
7. I pray that the eyes of my pastor may be enlightened to know the hope to which we are called and know the riches of our glorious inheritance in the saints. Let my pastor know the incomparable great power which is in us who believe (Eph. 1:18-19). Let _____ see the full revelation of Jesus Christ (Gal. 1:12). Place in him a desire to know Christ and the power of His resurrection (Phil. 3:10).
8. Lord, I lift up the hands of my pastor and his/her family. Place them in the shelter of the Most High to rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, You are their refuge and fortress. You will preserve their family time. You will cover their home. Your faithfulness will meet their financial needs in Christ Jesus (Phil. 4:19). You will command Your angels to guard them as they travel and win the lost. You have said, “I will be with [them] in trouble, I will deliver [them] and honor [them]. With a long life, I will satisfy [them] and show [them] my salvation” (Ps. 91:15-16). In Jesus´ name I cancel all assignments of the enemy against them.
9. In Jesus´ name I speak to church hurts, abuse, and ungrateful forces to move. I speak to mountains of criticism and inordinate expectations to be cast into the sea. I speak to stress, excessive phone counseling, and fatigue to be cast into the sea, and I believe every need, vision, and dream of _____´s will be completed (Mk. 11:22-24, Phil. 4:19).
10. Forgive those who hurt _____ and speak against him, and may my pastor walk in forgiveness (Eph. 4:32-5:1). Guard my pastor from futile thinking (Eph. 4:17) and a vain imagination. Let every thought be taken captive to obey Christ (2 Cor. 10:3-5).
11. In Jesus´ name I bind the fear of failure and the fear of humankind (Jn. 14:1). Let _____´s confidence not be eroded by the daily resistance to the gospel or his/her vision. Allow my pastor to fear God more than people.
12. Father, heal my shepherd´s heart of any grief caused by ministry. Bestow on my pastor a crown of beauty instead of ashes and anoint him with the oil of gladness instead of mourning. Clothe my shepherd with a garment of praise instead of a spirit of depression. I call my pastor an oak of righteousness, a planting of the Lord to display Your splendor (Is. 61:3).
13. Keep my pastor in the midst of good and exciting worship. Keep my pastor from the traditions of men and religion which hold the form of godliness, but deny its power (2 Tim. 3:5). Give _____ a vision of heaven (Isaiah 6, Revelation 4).
14. With my shield of faith I cover my shepherd´s mind to quench all flaming darts of doubt or vain imagination or mental distractions (Eph. 6:16, Col. 2:6-8 ). Let the mind of Christ be strong in my pastor (1 Cor. 2:16).
15. Lord, I stand against the enemies of my pastor´s prayer life: “busyness” (Acts 6:2-4), compulsions, compromise (Acts 5), unnecessary phone calls, chronic counselees, fatigue, sleepiness (Mt. 26:41), appetites, television, late meetings, over-commitments, and doubt. Let nothing hinder _____´s time with You. Let my pastor rise up to seek You (Mk. 1:35), pray with other pastors (Acts 1:14), and pray without ceasing (1 Thess. 5:17). Give my pastor the time, the desire, and the place to pray (Acts 16:16). I rebuke in the name of Jesus any distractions from my pastor´s devotional life.
16. Bless my pastor with rich study time (Acts 6:4, 2 Tim. 2:15).
17. As _____ preaches, let him proclaim Jesus Christ (Col. 1:28 ). Let my pastor´s preaching be in the energy of the Holy Spirit.
18. Lord, by Your Holy Spirit, anoint _____ to preach, and bring apostolic results (Acts 2:37). As my pastor speaks the Word, let signs and wonders follow confirming it (Mk. 16:20). Let the sick be healed; let the oppressed be set free. Anoint _____ with the truth (Mt. 16:17). Let people be cut to the heart and accept Jesus Christ.
19. Lord, as You have promised, grant my beloved shepherd lasting fruit (Mal. 3:11, Jn. 15:16). Let my pastor´s converts become disciples who in turn disciple. Bless my pastor with disciples who grow in the grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ.
20. Lord, keep my pastor in the fear of God. Let my pastor not fear people (Prov. 19:23). Give _____ boldness to confront sin and church controllers. Honor my pastor´s stand for You. Come to my pastor´s rescue. I claim Psalm 35 for my shepard.
1 Timothy 2:8 (KJV) "I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting."
Thanks Again!
Michael D. Sanes
Pastor, THWC
We had wonderful services yesterday at the Harbor. Last night was a special treat for Kelly and I to have our former Pastor and First Lady, Jesse and Pat Ogden with us in service. He did an outstanding job speaking to us about the importance of prayer and those who pray. He drove home the point that everything must be carried by prayer, and if it's not, the battle is being lost. Thanks to everyone who came back to the evening service, and especially those who have joined the Prayerborne fighting force of the Harbor.
I would also like to thank those who are standing as intercessors for me and my family. I have copied those twenty prayers that you prayed last night and listed them below for your convenience.
20 SCRIPTURE-BASED PRAYERS TO PRAY FOR YOUR PASTOR
1. I thank You, Father, that Your eyes are on my shepherd and Your ears are attentive to my pastor´s prayers and Your face is against those who plot evil against my pastor (1 Pet. 3:12). For I know that in all things You work for the good of _____ (insert your pastor´s name) who loves You (Ro. 8:28 ). Who can accuse this pastor who is daily interceded for by Christ Jesus? (Ro. 8:33-34). Therefore, in all things my pastor is more than a conqueror (Ro. 8:37). Thank You, God.
2. Lord, I pray for discernment in exposing any schemes of the enemy against my pastor. Show our congregation how to pray against all powers of this dark world and the spiritual forces of darkness in heavenly realms. And, Lord, protect us as we wage warfare on behalf of our pastor (Eph. 6:11-12).
3. Father, I thank You that no weapons formed against my pastor will prosper. Every tongue raised against my shepherd will be cast down. Rumors and gossip will be turned aside. For _____ will be still before the Lord and wait on You. My pastor will dwell in the shadow of the Most High God and will be delivered from terror, darts of doubt, and diseases (Ps. 91:5-6). Set Your angels about my pastor (Ps. 91:11) and no power of the enemy shall harm _____(Lk. 10:19). Thank God forevermore!
4. Lord, let _____ have a discerning mind to prioritize the precious minutes in the day. Let my pastor discern what is most important and be guarded against the tyranny of the urgent (2 Cor. 11:14, 1 Jn. 4:1).
5. Father, allow my pastor to glory only in the cross (Gal. 6:14). Keep my pastor from pride and pity. Let the cross be his reason for ministry.
6. Jesus keep my pastor holy in every way (1 Pet. 1:16). Protect my shepherd from seducing spirits especially when he is tired and hard-pressed. Give _____ comrades to help protect him, and to share with in personal holiness (Jas. 4:7). As my pastor draws near to You, draw near to my pastor (Jas. 4:8 ).
7. I pray that the eyes of my pastor may be enlightened to know the hope to which we are called and know the riches of our glorious inheritance in the saints. Let my pastor know the incomparable great power which is in us who believe (Eph. 1:18-19). Let _____ see the full revelation of Jesus Christ (Gal. 1:12). Place in him a desire to know Christ and the power of His resurrection (Phil. 3:10).
8. Lord, I lift up the hands of my pastor and his/her family. Place them in the shelter of the Most High to rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, You are their refuge and fortress. You will preserve their family time. You will cover their home. Your faithfulness will meet their financial needs in Christ Jesus (Phil. 4:19). You will command Your angels to guard them as they travel and win the lost. You have said, “I will be with [them] in trouble, I will deliver [them] and honor [them]. With a long life, I will satisfy [them] and show [them] my salvation” (Ps. 91:15-16). In Jesus´ name I cancel all assignments of the enemy against them.
9. In Jesus´ name I speak to church hurts, abuse, and ungrateful forces to move. I speak to mountains of criticism and inordinate expectations to be cast into the sea. I speak to stress, excessive phone counseling, and fatigue to be cast into the sea, and I believe every need, vision, and dream of _____´s will be completed (Mk. 11:22-24, Phil. 4:19).
10. Forgive those who hurt _____ and speak against him, and may my pastor walk in forgiveness (Eph. 4:32-5:1). Guard my pastor from futile thinking (Eph. 4:17) and a vain imagination. Let every thought be taken captive to obey Christ (2 Cor. 10:3-5).
11. In Jesus´ name I bind the fear of failure and the fear of humankind (Jn. 14:1). Let _____´s confidence not be eroded by the daily resistance to the gospel or his/her vision. Allow my pastor to fear God more than people.
12. Father, heal my shepherd´s heart of any grief caused by ministry. Bestow on my pastor a crown of beauty instead of ashes and anoint him with the oil of gladness instead of mourning. Clothe my shepherd with a garment of praise instead of a spirit of depression. I call my pastor an oak of righteousness, a planting of the Lord to display Your splendor (Is. 61:3).
13. Keep my pastor in the midst of good and exciting worship. Keep my pastor from the traditions of men and religion which hold the form of godliness, but deny its power (2 Tim. 3:5). Give _____ a vision of heaven (Isaiah 6, Revelation 4).
14. With my shield of faith I cover my shepherd´s mind to quench all flaming darts of doubt or vain imagination or mental distractions (Eph. 6:16, Col. 2:6-8 ). Let the mind of Christ be strong in my pastor (1 Cor. 2:16).
15. Lord, I stand against the enemies of my pastor´s prayer life: “busyness” (Acts 6:2-4), compulsions, compromise (Acts 5), unnecessary phone calls, chronic counselees, fatigue, sleepiness (Mt. 26:41), appetites, television, late meetings, over-commitments, and doubt. Let nothing hinder _____´s time with You. Let my pastor rise up to seek You (Mk. 1:35), pray with other pastors (Acts 1:14), and pray without ceasing (1 Thess. 5:17). Give my pastor the time, the desire, and the place to pray (Acts 16:16). I rebuke in the name of Jesus any distractions from my pastor´s devotional life.
16. Bless my pastor with rich study time (Acts 6:4, 2 Tim. 2:15).
17. As _____ preaches, let him proclaim Jesus Christ (Col. 1:28 ). Let my pastor´s preaching be in the energy of the Holy Spirit.
18. Lord, by Your Holy Spirit, anoint _____ to preach, and bring apostolic results (Acts 2:37). As my pastor speaks the Word, let signs and wonders follow confirming it (Mk. 16:20). Let the sick be healed; let the oppressed be set free. Anoint _____ with the truth (Mt. 16:17). Let people be cut to the heart and accept Jesus Christ.
19. Lord, as You have promised, grant my beloved shepherd lasting fruit (Mal. 3:11, Jn. 15:16). Let my pastor´s converts become disciples who in turn disciple. Bless my pastor with disciples who grow in the grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ.
20. Lord, keep my pastor in the fear of God. Let my pastor not fear people (Prov. 19:23). Give _____ boldness to confront sin and church controllers. Honor my pastor´s stand for You. Come to my pastor´s rescue. I claim Psalm 35 for my shepard.
1 Timothy 2:8 (KJV) "I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting."
Thanks Again!
Michael D. Sanes
Pastor, THWC
Friday, December 3, 2010
Prayerborne
This coming Sunday evening we will have Rev. Jesse Ogden speaking for us in the evening service. He will be speaking on the importance of prayer and those who pray. We will be launching a ministry called "Prayerborne", and I would love to enlist you into this group. I am asking those who are serious about the ministry of prayer to join my "Pastor's Prayer Group--Prayerborne".
The name Prayerborne is a play off of the military term Airborne, which means to be carried by the air. Air is crucial to the skydiver for his parachute to fly, likewise, prayer is crucial to the believer. Prayer is what carries us, it is what lifts us and moves us along. At this point we have a lack of prayer and that is just as dangerous as a jumper with a lack of air. The problem is that you will both die; one without air and the other without prayer.
Let Us Pray!!!
The name Prayerborne is a play off of the military term Airborne, which means to be carried by the air. Air is crucial to the skydiver for his parachute to fly, likewise, prayer is crucial to the believer. Prayer is what carries us, it is what lifts us and moves us along. At this point we have a lack of prayer and that is just as dangerous as a jumper with a lack of air. The problem is that you will both die; one without air and the other without prayer.
Let Us Pray!!!
THWC Fellowship Riders
We had a great ride to Fernandina Beach this evening, but I must say it was a cold ride. I have decided that from now on we have to be back in the county at sundown during the winter. We enjoyed the time with Steve, Janet, and the boys.
I would also like to mention the new ministry of our church called: "The Harbor Worship Center Fellowship Riders". Steve Smith is the director of this ministry and he is very excited about it. He has most of the year planned out with one ride per month. There will also be a special "Bike Sunday" (date to be announced), a day in which we will invite riders from all over the county to come and worship with us. We will fill the church with bikers and share the gospel message with them as well. Some of them already know the Lord and have a relationship with Him, but there will be some that don't, and we are believing God for them to come to know Him on this day.
What you can do to help with this ministry. You may not ride a motorcylce, but I bet you know someone that does. Maybe they're a friend at work, a colleague, or a neighbor. You can invite them to come and ride with the Fellowship Riders of the Harbor Worship Center. Most bikers are always looking for a ride, so you could be the one that puts them in touch with our riders, who in turn could lead them to Jesus, and you would be the vital link in the chain that led them to the Lord. How cool is that?
Blessings!
Mike Sanes
Pastor, THWC
I would also like to mention the new ministry of our church called: "The Harbor Worship Center Fellowship Riders". Steve Smith is the director of this ministry and he is very excited about it. He has most of the year planned out with one ride per month. There will also be a special "Bike Sunday" (date to be announced), a day in which we will invite riders from all over the county to come and worship with us. We will fill the church with bikers and share the gospel message with them as well. Some of them already know the Lord and have a relationship with Him, but there will be some that don't, and we are believing God for them to come to know Him on this day.
What you can do to help with this ministry. You may not ride a motorcylce, but I bet you know someone that does. Maybe they're a friend at work, a colleague, or a neighbor. You can invite them to come and ride with the Fellowship Riders of the Harbor Worship Center. Most bikers are always looking for a ride, so you could be the one that puts them in touch with our riders, who in turn could lead them to Jesus, and you would be the vital link in the chain that led them to the Lord. How cool is that?
Blessings!
Mike Sanes
Pastor, THWC
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Learning How to Let it Go
Last Sunday I preached a message entitled "Learning How to Let it Go". Many of our people were traveling for the Thanksgiving holiday and were not able to attend. That message is now available on our website at www.theharborworshipcenter.org. I would like to mention some of the highlights of that message here.
First, let me say, that everyone of us has been hurt at some time in our lives, some more than others, some with deeper wounds. However, just because we've been hurt in life that doesn't mean that we can never have joy and fulfillment for the rest of our lives. In order for us to go on with our lives and achieve any level of satisfaction we must learn to let it go. We must let go of that hurt, that shame, that abuse, that maltreatment, whatever it is that has held us captive for so long, it must be released and let go of before we can move on.
1. Choose to let it go not because it feels right, but because it is right! If you wait to forgive someone until you feel like it you may never forgive that person. We don't operate based on our feelings, but we operate on the facts, and the fact is that it is the right thing to do--so forgive. Jesus felt so strongly about this that He said that if you come to the altar to offer your gift and remember that a brother has ought against you, you are to lay your gift down at the altar and go make things right with your brother, then come back and offer your gift. Notice that Jesus didn't say, "if you have something against your brother", but He said, "if you remember that your brother has something against you". He is indicating here that it is the Christians responsibility to initiate the first steps toward making things right, and we are to do so whether we feel like it or not.
2. Remember that God is not accountable to us; we are accountable to Him. Beneath a lot of anger, resentment, and bitterness, I often find that there is an unforgiven spirit aimed at God. We seldom say it, but many hold God accountable for what is happening in their lives. This is not new, it goes all the way back to the Garden of Eden where Adam as much as told God that: 'he was not really responsible for his actions because he was led to this action by the woman that God had created for him'. In essence he is saying: "God, its your fault, if you hadn't given me this woman I wouldn't not be in this fix". Remember, God is not accountable to us, we are accountable to Him, and we cannot blame him for consequences derived from the choices we've made.
3. Nothing anyone has done to you compares to what you have done to God. When it seems impossible to forgive someone else just remember all the things you have been forgiven of. You have hurt God more yourself than anyone could ever hurt you. Remember the story that Jesus told about the Unjust Steward who owed a lot of money and could not pay it? The judge ordered him and his family to be thrown in jail until he could pay it all. The man begged for mercy and the judge just flatly forgave the entire debt. That same day this forgiven man went out and found a man that owed him a meager amount of money, he took him by the throat and said: "pay me what you owe me". The man begged for mercy, but no mercy was shown; he had the man thrown into prison. When the judge heard about this he was furious. He brought the man back before him; he vacated his first judgement and threw him into prison. Jesus said: "So it is with everyone who will not forgive!"
4. Focus not on what you have lost, but on what you have left. Many people pine away thinking about all the things they've lost, but all the thinking and grieving in the is not going to bring those things back. They are in the words of Samuel--like water spilled upon the ground, they cannot be gathered up again. So it does you no good to dwell on what you've lost; conversely, you should look around and thank God for what you have left. I think about the story Jesus told about the Prodigal Son's return to his father's house and how his older brother reacted when his father treated him so kindly after he'd wasted so much. Notice the father didn't go on a tirade about all the money that was lost, no; he concentrated on what mattered the most. It is evident in his words: " My son who was dead is now alive!" He didn't worry about what he'd lost, He was happy about what he had left!
If we will adhere to these four principles it will go a long way in helping us to let it go!
Have a blessed day~!
Mike Sanes
Pastor, THWC
First, let me say, that everyone of us has been hurt at some time in our lives, some more than others, some with deeper wounds. However, just because we've been hurt in life that doesn't mean that we can never have joy and fulfillment for the rest of our lives. In order for us to go on with our lives and achieve any level of satisfaction we must learn to let it go. We must let go of that hurt, that shame, that abuse, that maltreatment, whatever it is that has held us captive for so long, it must be released and let go of before we can move on.
1. Choose to let it go not because it feels right, but because it is right! If you wait to forgive someone until you feel like it you may never forgive that person. We don't operate based on our feelings, but we operate on the facts, and the fact is that it is the right thing to do--so forgive. Jesus felt so strongly about this that He said that if you come to the altar to offer your gift and remember that a brother has ought against you, you are to lay your gift down at the altar and go make things right with your brother, then come back and offer your gift. Notice that Jesus didn't say, "if you have something against your brother", but He said, "if you remember that your brother has something against you". He is indicating here that it is the Christians responsibility to initiate the first steps toward making things right, and we are to do so whether we feel like it or not.
2. Remember that God is not accountable to us; we are accountable to Him. Beneath a lot of anger, resentment, and bitterness, I often find that there is an unforgiven spirit aimed at God. We seldom say it, but many hold God accountable for what is happening in their lives. This is not new, it goes all the way back to the Garden of Eden where Adam as much as told God that: 'he was not really responsible for his actions because he was led to this action by the woman that God had created for him'. In essence he is saying: "God, its your fault, if you hadn't given me this woman I wouldn't not be in this fix". Remember, God is not accountable to us, we are accountable to Him, and we cannot blame him for consequences derived from the choices we've made.
3. Nothing anyone has done to you compares to what you have done to God. When it seems impossible to forgive someone else just remember all the things you have been forgiven of. You have hurt God more yourself than anyone could ever hurt you. Remember the story that Jesus told about the Unjust Steward who owed a lot of money and could not pay it? The judge ordered him and his family to be thrown in jail until he could pay it all. The man begged for mercy and the judge just flatly forgave the entire debt. That same day this forgiven man went out and found a man that owed him a meager amount of money, he took him by the throat and said: "pay me what you owe me". The man begged for mercy, but no mercy was shown; he had the man thrown into prison. When the judge heard about this he was furious. He brought the man back before him; he vacated his first judgement and threw him into prison. Jesus said: "So it is with everyone who will not forgive!"
4. Focus not on what you have lost, but on what you have left. Many people pine away thinking about all the things they've lost, but all the thinking and grieving in the is not going to bring those things back. They are in the words of Samuel--like water spilled upon the ground, they cannot be gathered up again. So it does you no good to dwell on what you've lost; conversely, you should look around and thank God for what you have left. I think about the story Jesus told about the Prodigal Son's return to his father's house and how his older brother reacted when his father treated him so kindly after he'd wasted so much. Notice the father didn't go on a tirade about all the money that was lost, no; he concentrated on what mattered the most. It is evident in his words: " My son who was dead is now alive!" He didn't worry about what he'd lost, He was happy about what he had left!
If we will adhere to these four principles it will go a long way in helping us to let it go!
Have a blessed day~!
Mike Sanes
Pastor, THWC
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